Employers are not required to replicate previous training of a new operator according to forklift rules. Training nevertheless needs to be supplemented in order to address specific workplace risks and specific workplace equipment. For instance, an operator doesn't have to be trained in order to maneuver a forklift on a ramp if that work place does not contain a ramp; then again, if the operator is really assigned to work somewhere that has a ramp, it is essential that extra training should be provided.
Trainees are only allowed to use forklifts under direct supervision of only individuals who have the necessary knowledge and training to train and evaluate the trainees skill on the forklift. The trainees can just learn in a setting where such operation does not endanger the trainee themselves or other workers.
It is necessary to make a practical assessment within the workplace. If a third party training provider is chosen, it is wise to have the training happen at the jobsite, utilizing lift trucks at the workplace to be as precise as possible.
An operator is said to be qualified once they have successfully passed the training with records maintained by the employer. The certification needs to contain the training date, the operator name, and the name of the person performing the training and evaluation and lastly the assessment date. Though certain state OSHA bodies require the issue of an operator's certificate, the Federal OSHA does not require it.
Refresher training is required to be completed every 3 years. It is also required any time an operator demonstrates some kind of inadequacy in safe lift truck operation. For instance, refresher training will be triggered by certain occurrences like for example: if a different kind of lift truck is introduced to the workplace, if there is a near miss or an accident, if an operator received a poor 3 year evaluation and if a supervisor observes operating unsafely.
When unsafe operation of a lift truck is noticed, it should be noticed that refresher training is not always the solution. Like for instance, if an operator is deliberately disobeying workplace safety regulations, it can be required to implement disciplinary action. And finally, though training lift truck operators is a requirement, it is necessary to practice forklift awareness training for other employees working near forklifts and pedestrians in order to make sure that everyone stays safe.